8 Best Hostels in Sydney for Backpackers

What are the best hostels in Sydney?
We have shortlisted 8 top hostels in Sydney; affordable backpacker accommodation with great facilities and easy access to public transport and landmarks.

Sydney is one of the most popular backpacking cities in the world, and for good reason! A perfect climate, lots of beaches, easy public transport, great cafes and restaurants, Sydney has indeed a lot to offer.

With so many backpackers and budget travellers visiting Sydney each year, it’s no surprise that there are lots of great hostels spread across the city. Some of them are quite cheap and affordable, while others are a bit more exclusive with excellent facilities.

We’ve created a shortlist of the 8 best hostels in Sydney that we think are not only great value for money but are also in ideal locations.

4. The Pod Sydney

Located close to World Square shopping mall in Sydney’s CBD, The Pod is a different kind of hostel. It’s a very affordable place to stay, with maximum privacy in dormitory rooms.

The hostel is named The Pod because of the enclosed pod-style beds in the dorms, each with their own lights and power sockets. It gives residents a sense of privacy, while still enjoying the social aspect of being in a hostel.

The Pod Sydney

In addition to the well-designed rooms, The Pod Sydney also offers a cozy communal space with a large kitchen and dining room, a lobby lounge and a TV lounge.

The Pod is very much a functional hostel, and doesn’t have the typical outdoor party area that you often find in hostels. But being so close to everything, that shoulnd’t be much of a miss.

5. Mad Monkey Bayswater

Formerly known as Kings Cross Backpackers, Mad Monkey Bayswater is the best choice if you’re keen to stay in one of Sydney’s most popular party districts, Kings Cross.

Set in a typical Autralian townhouse-style property, the family atmosphere at Mad Monkey Bayswater means new guests make new friends almost instantly.

Mad Monkey Bayswater

One of the perks of staying overnight here is the rooftop area with BBQ facilities, a great spot to relax and to spend a few summer evenings chatting away while enjoying a cold beer.

This hostel is located just off the famous “Golden Mile” in Kings Cross with easy access to clubs, restaurants & tourist hotspots. Kings Cross train station is around the corner as well, with a direct connection to Bondi Junction and the city.

7. Mad Monkey Coogee Beach

If Bondi is a bit too busy for you, Coogee Beach is an excellent alternative. Coogee is just as awesome as Bondi, it’s just a bit smaller and quieter than its big brother further north.

One of the best hostels in Coogee is Mad Monkey, located opposite the beach and close to the main strip of cafes and restaurants. It’s also the starting point of the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk, a must-do when you’re in Sydney.

Mad Monkey Coogee Beach

Mad Monkey has a wide range of dorms of different sizes available, as well as private rooms. Travelling to the city is very easy too, with regular buses going to the city departing from the bus stop across the road.

8. Manly Bunkhouse

Situated on the north side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Manly is Sydney’s second most popular beach with a pleasant family friendly atmosphere.

Manly Bunkhouse is a super relaxed hostel to stay at, with a typical Australian backpacking atmosphere. It’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and close enough to an awesome beach that is great for swimming as well as surfing.

Manly Bunkhouse

Travelling to the city isn’t too hard from Manly, with regular ferry services operating between the Manly ferry wharf and Circular Quay.

Manly Bunkhouse offers basic hostel rooms and facilities, with a laidback vibe that you will absolutely appreciate. Common areas include a sunny backyard, lounge room and a large kitchen.

Final Thoughts on Backpacking in Sydney

With tons of hostels to choose from in Sydney and surroundings, it’s not always easy to make the right choice. The above 8 hostels all have a good reputation and offer the right facilities, some a bit more expensive than others.

In the Sydney CBD area, our favorite hostel would be the Sydney Harbour YHA. Despite the fact that it’s perhaps a bit pricier than other options, this hostel is top notch and is located in a perfect location, close to ferries, trains, and all the tourist highlights.

If you’d like to be closer to the beach, Wake Up! Bondi Beach is an excellent choice. If you prefer Coogee Beach further south, Mad Monkey is a great place to stay. Coogee is a little quieter than Bondi, but still with lots of fun things to do and with easy access to public transport.

Looking for inspiration for things to do in Sydney? Check out this shortlist: